1. Adult Skin Problems Slideshow Pictures
2. Quiz: Can You Identify These Skin Conditions?
3. Gallery of Skin Problems and Images Collection

Medical Author:

Marisa L. Oishi, MD, MPH

Coauthor:

Lisandro Irizarry, MD, MPH, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

View Full Profile

Sometimes, scalp ringworm can heal without treatment, but consulting a doctor is advised. To ensure timely management of the infection, it must be treated with a course of oral antifungal medications. Shaving the scalp is unnecessary.

• Shampoo with selenium sulfide (1%-2.5%), zinc pyrithione (1%-2%), or ketoconazole used two to three times weekly at home can help decrease shedding of spores, decrease spread of the infection to other people, and should be used together with the oral medications. Shampoos include Head & Shoulders Intensive Treatment, Selsun, Selsun Blue, Selsun Gold for Women, and Nizoral. Stronger medicated shampoos are sometimes prescribed by doctors, but in general, over-the-counter shampoos can be used.
• Because family members may be carriers, some doctors recommend that family members should also use the medicated shampoo to reduce the number of spores and prevent the infection from returning.
• Oral steroids can also be added for severe inflammatory types of scalp ringworm.

Hairbrushes and combs should be replaced or cleansed with disinfectant such as bleach solution. Bleach solution can be made by combining one part bleach to one part water, then soak the hairbrushes or combs for one hour daily for the first three days after using the shampoo and oral medication.

Home remedies such as vinegar (acetic acid) and tea tree oil have not been shown to improve scalp ringworm and may further irritate the skin and worsen the condition.

Must Read Articles Related to Ringworm on Scalp

Impetigo Impetigo is a common type of skin infection. If you pick at sores or scratch itchy bites, you may cause bacteria to enter your skin and cause impetigo. Ba...learn more >>

Onychomycosis Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. Onychomycosis causes fingernails or toenails to thicken, discolor, disfigure, and split. At ...learn more >>

Ringworm on Body Ringworm (or tinea corporis) is a common fungal infection resulting from dermatophytes. Symptoms and signs include lesions on the trunk, legs, arms, neck, and f...learn more >>

See the Entire Ringworm on Scalp Topic Guide »